OUR STORY
Winding Branch Ranch is a nonprofit Agricultural Resource Center and farm animal sanctuary in the Texas Hill Country dedicated to connecting people with agriculture, conservation and the animals who call the sanctuary home.
Founded in 2023, Winding Branch Ranch began with a simple realization: farm animals in need often had nowhere to go. What started as an effort to rescue, rehabilitate and responsibly rehome animals quickly grew into something much larger. We saw an equally important need for people of all ages to better understand where food comes from, how animals are responsibly cared for and why healthy land, sustainable agriculture and conservation matter.
Today, Winding Branch Ranch brings those pieces together. Through hands-on educational programs, field trips, workshops, community events and agricultural experiences, we give children and adults meaningful opportunities to learn about food systems, farming, animal care, gardening, conservation and responsible land stewardship.
Animal rescue remains an important part of our work. We provide animals in need with safety, rehabilitation and, whenever possible, carefully matched adoptive homes. The animals who remain at the sanctuary also help create powerful opportunities for education and connection.
Our work is rooted in the belief that stronger communities begin with greater understanding. By helping people connect with agriculture, animals and the land around them, Winding Branch Ranch is cultivating a more informed, responsible and sustainable future.
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to strengthen communities through agricultural education, conservation-based learning and farm animal rescue, inspiring a deeper understanding of food systems, responsible animal care and sustainable land practices.
OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Max Gonzalez
President, Board of Directors,
Commercial Banker, Karnes County National Bank
Max Gonzalez serves on the Board of Directors of Winding Branch Ranch, bringing financial expertise and community banking experience to support responsible growth and fiscal stewardship. As a commercial banker, Max works closely with local businesses and organizations, offering insight into financial planning, lending, and sustainable operations. He is committed to supporting mission-driven nonprofits and strengthening the ranch’s ability to serve animals and the broader community.
Karen Bohanan
Treasurer, Board of Directors, Finance and Governance Committee Chair
Bookkeeper, Comal Independent School District
Karen Bohanan serves as Treasurer and Bookkeeper for Winding Branch Ranch, overseeing financial recordkeeping for programs, events, and day-to-day operations. She recently retired from USAA after 37 years in accounting and finance and continues her professional work as a school bookkeeper within Comal ISD. Karen brings extensive nonprofit treasurer experience, including service with The Bands of Claudia Taylor Johnson Foundation, the CTJ Band Parent Organization, and Ronald McDonald House. She is committed to strong financial stewardship and supporting the ranch’s mission to rehabilitate and rehome rescued animals.
Timothy Kessler
Interim Secretary, Board of Directors | Co-Founder
Timothy Kessler is a co-founder and board member of Winding Branch Ranch, actively involved in growth strategy and hands-on animal care. With a professional background in television and media, Tim brings creative problem-solving and operational insight to the organization. At the ranch, he is often found repairing fences, feeding animals, or building new infrastructure. His dedication centers on creating a safe, enriching environment for rescued animals and the community that supports them.
Matthew Aversa
Board of Directors | Co-Founder & Executive Director
Executive Director, Winding Branch Ranch
Matthew Aversa is the co-founder and Executive Director of Winding Branch Ranch, leading organizational strategy, educational programming, and daily operations. With over 15 years of experience in public relations and nonprofit leadership, he focuses on humane, ethical, and sustainable farming education while guiding the ranch’s growth, rescue efforts, and community engagement.
Samantha Trimble
Board of Directors
Lead Business Accountability Specialist, Vice President, Wells Fargo
Samantha Trimble serves as a board member of Winding Branch Ranch and volunteers as the Adoption & Surrender Coordinator, supporting responsible intake practices and successful placement outcomes. She brings extensive experience in financial oversight, compliance, risk management, and governance from her career in the financial services industry. Samantha is passionate about animal wellbeing and the education of sustainable farming practices, helping strengthen the organization’s operational integrity and long-term sustainability.